Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate

Benefits
Hair ConditioningSoftening

What is Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate?

Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate is a synthetic ester formed by reacting dipentaerythritol—a polyol produced from pentaerythritol—with caprylic and capric acids, medium-chain fatty acids often derived from coconut or palm kernel oils. This creates a low-viscosity, colorless liquid prized in cosmetics for its superior lubricity and dry-touch feel. It appears in makeup products like lipsticks and foundations, skincare lotions, and hair formulations. In products, it functions as an emollient to deposit a breathable barrier that limits moisture evaporation, as a thickener to optimize flow and stability, and as an emulsion stabilizer to blend oils and water evenly. Its branched structure ensures quick absorption and a velvety after-feel without tackiness.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Smoothing
Improves the perceived smoothness of skin or hair by reducing roughness and friction, often through emollients, silicones, or conditioning polymers.

Benefits

Delivers softening and conditioning to skin and hair.

Enhances smoothness by reducing surface friction.

Improves formulation texture for better application.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users with dry skin needing non-greasy moisture.
Those allergic to caprylic or capric acid derivatives.
Makeup wearers seeking smooth, even coverage.
Individuals sensitive to polyol esters.
People with dull hair desiring lightweight conditioning.
Users preferring fully natural or botanical ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with score of 1.
  • Non-comedogenic, rated 0 for pore-clogging potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate

Is it irritating to skin?

Low irritation potential based on safety assessments.

Safe for daily use in cosmetics?

Yes, well-tolerated in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Suitable for oily skin types?

Yes, non-comedogenic and provides light feel.